June 6, 2011

Can't NWCOUT or Export to Navisworks?

This is a common call we get here in support. It happens when users can’t export from Revit or AutoCAD even though they have the Navisworks Exporters installed. Typically this is caused from the Exporters installed prior to the CAD or BIM application and therefore doesn’t know to “hook” into that program.

Here’s how you fix the problem:

1. Go to Control Panel, Uninstall a Program

2. From the list select Autodesk Navisworks 64 bit Exporters or Autodesk Navisworks 32 bit Exporters. This will depend on what bit version your CAD or BIM application has been installed as.

Once the Exporters have finished reinstalling you’ll now be able to export out of your CAD or BIM software. For example to export out of AutoCAD you will use the command NWCOUT. *Note prior to 2012 you could use the command NWDOUT but this command no longer exists.

To export a Revit model click the Add-Ins tab on the Ribbon, External Tools.

Are you being asked to provide .nwc files, but don’t own a copy of Navisworks?

It’s a free download which allows you to export your CAD or BIM model to an .nwc file so you can fully collaborate with your Navisworks users.

Still not quite sure what Navisworks is or does?

Autodesk Navisworks is an extremely powerful BIM tool, which allows you to bring building information models together from multiple sources including Revit, AutoCAD, Civil 3D, 3ds Max, Microstation, Bentley, and others. Once all models are merged together you can perform clash detections, construction communication, construction time-lining and sequencing. We’re seeing an increased interest in Navisworks and its abilities to highlight potential construction conflicts before they happen in the field. Naturally construction management firms and general contractors are most interested in this product, but it’s becoming increasingly important for the architect and engineers to utilize Navisworks as well.

Derek Wielkopolski
Technical Support Manager/Application SpecialistDerek holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Roger Williams University, Rhode Island. He is experienced working within the AEC industry from concept design through construction administration for both small and large scale projects. As Ideate’s Support Manager he ensures a timely and quality response to support requests and questions. Follow Derek on Twitter: @dwielk

Ideate, Inc., is a leading Autodesk solutions provider, recognized as a Platinum Partner for Architecture, Engineering and Construction, Autodesk's highest level of authorization. Employing top registered architects, engineers and designers, Ideate offers companies in the areas of building, infrastructure and multimedia Autodesk software, training, support and custom consulting services. Ideate Authorized Training Centers are located in San Francisco, Sacramento, San Jose, Portland and Seattle.